Why didn't I think of that?

Good Stuff @ Your Library

The South Dakota School of Mines & Technology’s Devereaux Library has good stuff at their library. To share that message with their patrons they have "dum-dum" bouquets sitting on top of shelves in the main areas of the library. The sweet treats are wrapped in a colorful strip of paper with the saying "Good Stuff @ Your Library" on the outside and "Before all else fails, ask a librarian" on the inside. The strips of paper measure 5 1/2 inches by 1 1/4 inches and are cut out using "wavy" scissors so the edges are pretty. The library buys large bags of dum-dums at Sam's Club very inexpensively to create the bouquets. Library Director Patty Andersen said the treats are popular with the students who take one as they pass through. This idea could be easily used by other libraries as a promotional tool since the text could say whatever you want it to.

Freeman and Marion cooperate on book exchange program

Libraries in SD continue to come up with innovative ways to expand book offerings to patrons. A new exchange program between Freeman and Marion is a perfect example. According to LeAnn Kaufman, Freeman librarian, the book exchange started this summer. The idea originated with the large print book circuit that used to run throughout the state. Freeman currently exchanges 15 books with Marion. During the summer, the exchange period has been for three months. As fall approaches and schools are back in session, the time frame will be shorter.

To move the books the roughly 14 miles between communities, innovation again comes into play. Linda Luke, the Marion School/Community librarian, was coming to Freeman one day, so that is how the inaugural exchange took place. In the future, Kaufman’s children, who attend school in Marion, will also become the library couriers. Menno School/Community Library, under the direction of Shana Smidt, has expressed an interest in joining the program exchange, and plans are in the works to make that happen.

Gaming is for all ages

Gaming in the library doesn’t need to be high-tech or just for kids. Hurley Public Library has set aside a puzzle corner for adults. Librarian Marilyn Jorgensen says many adults find it a relaxing spot and a good place to come for some company and conversation. All of the puzzles were donated, so the library just had to create a space with a table and they were in business.

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